Being my travels down those great two lane highways of this nation as well as news I learn about them from media sources. Since I'm also very interested in historic preservation, there will be a lot of that as well.

Friday, May 9, 2008

Have You Ever Heard of Marfa, Texas?

Well, Hollywood certainly has. Even more important, Mr. Oscar has heard of it as well. "When Hollywood needs western desolation, it comes to Marfa."

More than 50 years ago, director George Stevens chose this town to film "Giant" with Rock Hudson, Elizabeth Taylor, and James Dean. The film was nominated ten times, but won an Oscar only for best director.

"The stark, gorgeous landscape outside the town shows up" in this film as well as two more recent ones, "There Will Be Blood" and "No Country for Old Men."

Local rancher David Williams escorted scouts here four years ago and the site was perfect for the films.

MARFA

The population in town is 2,100 and was founded as a West Texas railroad stop in 1883. It is believed the town got its name from the wife of a railroad executive who was reading Dostoevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov" at the time.

There is no movie theater in the town, but it plays a big part in 16 nominations for this year. It would also appear it is becoming a micro Santa Fe with artists opening studios.

EL PAISANO HOTEL

Built in 1930 in the Spanish Colonial style. Has 60 rooms and was a backdrop for many of the scenes in Giant. Beautifully restored in 2001.